CONTENTSHighlightsCommittee NewsIndoor MeetingsField TripsClassified ListWeatherBOU Order of Species Descriptions wanted for 2012 and Rare Bird Report FormSeaton Sluice Watch Tower renovationsWeBS InlandOutstanding Records2011-2012 Accounts

CLASSIFIED LIST HIGHLIGHTSWhooper Swan Large gathering at Loanend near Horncliffe with 162 on 6th.Tundra Bean Goose Singles in Blyth / Holywell area and in Druridge BayGreenland White-fronted Goose Only one or two noted at Woodhorn and Grindon LoughMandarin Single on the River Tyne at AllerwashPintail Peak of 106 at Elwick on 30th.Goldeneye High count of 194 on the WEBS count at the Tweed EstuarySmew The redhead remained at East Chevington all month.Bittern Wintering birds with two at Gosforth Park, two at East Chevington and two othersCattle Egret The second county record with one on Holy Island from 26thRed-necked Grebe Singles off Holy Island castle and at Stag Rocks, BamburghRough-legged Buzzard Singles reported at Lucker and Harper's HeughBlack-tailed Godwit High winter counts of nine at Holy Island causeway and four at Hadston.Greenshank Wintering bird still at Budle BayLittle Gull Unusual winter sighting of an adult offshore at East Chevington on 24th.Iceland Gull One at North Shields Fish Quay on 27th.Glaucous Gull A first-winter at North Shields Fish Quay on 29th.Little Auk One off Stag Rocks on 5th.Black Redstart wintering bird at Low NewtonMealy Redpoll Single at East Chevington on 24th.Hawfinch Singles at Big Waters and HexhamLapland Bunting An unusual record of a male singing at Swallow Pond on 23rd !

COMMITTEE NEWSSeaton Sluice WatchtowerAfter many years the watchtower steps were in a very poor state of repair with the lower steps held up on bricks. As this was a safety hazard new steps were commissioned and Chirton Engineering made a fantastic offer to provide them free of charge saving the club a significant sum. The committee would like to thank Chirton Engineering and particularly Paul Stewart for this huge act of generosity. Over the weekend of 23rd/24th February two work parties first removed the old steps and then took on the task of moving the new steps from 'the mainland' onto Rocky Island and into position. Despite freezing conditions and the occasional blizzard the work went reasonably well and the new steps are now in place. Thanks to Martin Davison, Andy McLevy, Maurice Hepple, Brian Bullough, Steve Barrett, Nick Adams, Paul Stewart for some sterling work. See later in this bulletin to see the new steps.

Backworth Pond/Beehive Flash/Lynemouth FlashAll three of these wetland sites are currently under threat of drainage from landowners/tenants. The committee are aware of the issues and are communicating with Northumberland Wildlife Trust and the relevant local authorities to try and safeguard the habitats. Work carried out at Backworth Pond has been reversed after a site meeting involving NWT and North Tyneside Council but further negotiations are continuing. The committee would like to thank club members including Chris Knox for bringing these issues to our attention.

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Northumberland andTyneside Bird ClubRegistered Charity No. 517641http://www.ntbc.org.uk/Bulletin 2013 No 1MONTHLY SUMMARY – JANUARY 6th March 2013

INDOOR MEETINGSThe next indoor meeting is at 7pm at Northern Rugby Club on 14th March.Birders' Question Time . The panel will include Mike Pratt, CEO of Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Nick Adams, Regional Conservation Manager for RSPB and Tom Cadwallender, Regional Representative for BTO and will be chaired by NTBC Chairman Martin Davison. Other panellists are to be included and will be listed when confirmed. So please get you questions formulated and ready for the night.

FIELD TRIPSTrevor Blakes' next field trips are;Kielder on 24th March – raptors are certain to feature in this popular visitHarthope Valley 19th May – upland birds in one of our most scenic areasPlease contact Trevor direct for more information: trevor.1958@live.co.uk

CLASSIFIED LISTThe following account consists of unchecked reports. The species/subspecies marked * require descriptions.A complete list of all sightings that need notes is included in the NTBC website www.ntbc.org.uk under the County Records Committee section and in Birds in Northumbria 2009 page 224.The Inland Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) tables are at the rear of the bulletin. These contain counts additional to those in the Classified List

Mute Swan Cygnus olorKillingworth Lake held 161 on 6th (JPD), 13 were at Druridge Bay CP on 17th (PRM), and five to nine at Bothal Pond, East Chevington, Hartburn Reservoir, Newcastle Leazes Park, Prestwick Carr and Spittal, One to four were at 16 further widespread sites. A darvic ringed individual at the Tweed Estuary on 9th had been ringed at Edinburgh on 2/8/12 (MHu).

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus150 flew N at Tynemouth on 5th (BMo), eight NW at West Chevington on 12th (MHp/TRC), and four N at Cresswell Pond on 16th (RD/IF). A flock of 162 at Loanend, Horncliffe on 6th consisted of 128 adults and 24 juveniles (MHu), 64 were at Cornhill on Tweed on 29th (JDL), 46 (four juveniles) at Fenham Mill on 28th (AA/MH), 35 near Warkworth on 27th (JPD/ASJ), and 25-29 at Alnmouth on several dates (DHa/MPu et al.). Six to ten were at Budle Bay, Cresswell and Linton Ponds, Doddington, East Chevington, and one to three at Capheaton and Killingworth Lakes, Prestwick Carr and West Ord.

An adult Whooper SwanKillingworth Lake

19th January by Adriana Buskin

Bean Goose Anser fabalisOne of the rossicus race was found at Holywell Pond on 10th (SPP) and remained until 13th (CS/ASJ/RJP et al.) and probably the same bird was at Seaton Sluice-Glouster Farm, Blyth area between 21st-26th (MHp/STH et al.). It, or another of the rossicus race was in the Druridge Pools area on 16th-17th (MSH/PRM).

Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchusPassage to NW-N-NE involved 250-270 at East Ord and Longhorsley (MHu/NFO), and 50-150 at Arcot and Swallow Ponds and East Cramlington on 5th-6th (JPD/DM/LJM); and southbound birds included 1,300 at East Ord on 10th (MHu), 208-240 at East Chevington and Howick on 1st (TRD/JD/SS), and 73-138 at Cocklawburn, Howick Haven Ord Moor and Swallow Pond on several dates (JPD/MHu/SS).

The Druridge Bay area held good numbers (possibly some interchange between sites), with peaks of about 5,000 at Druridge Pools on 17th (PRM), 4,500 on the south side of East Chevington south pool on 17th (ASJ), and 3,000 at Cresswell on 2nd (MSH). In the north of the county about 4,000 were at Doddington on 2nd (TRD/JD), 1,400 at Ladythorne, Cheswick on 24th (MHu), 1,000 at Harper’s Heugh (near Budle Bay) between 29th-31st (JPL/DHa/DGB et al.), and 400-680 at Cocklawburn, Elwick and Fenham-le-Moor (DGB/MHu/PRM). Elsewhere, 600-700 were at Holywell Pond on 10th (SP), 600 in the Earsdon-Holywell areas on 1st-2nd and 11th (MSH), 200 at St Mary’s Island on 16th (SPP), 150-200 at Blyth-Seaton Sluice on 23rd-24th (JPD/ASJ/MSH), 100-150 at Alnwick and Smeafield, and ten to 30 at Bothal Pond and Capheaton.

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White-fronted Goose Anser albifronsEurasian albifrons race birds involved two in the Druridge Pools area on 2nd (TF/JFa) and 19th (NFO), and singles at Holywell Pond on 31st (SPP) and Woodhorn on several dates between 12th-24th (ASJ/PRM/NFO).

Greenland race flavirostris birds involved two at Cresswell Pond on 26th (MSH), one to two at Woodhorn on seven dates between 1st-29th (MSH/AT et al.) and one at Grindon Lough on 5th-6th (SJH).

One of the Greenland race Whitefronts Woodhorn Flashby Paul Massey

24th January

Greylag Goose Anser anser1,000 at Harper’s Heugh near Budle Bay on 29th-30th (DGB) was the largest single concentration. Other peak counts were 300 at Holywell Pond on 9th (JPD), 296 at Druridge Pools on 29th (MSH), 151-167 at Cheswick (MHu), Derwent Reservoir (IFo), East Chevington (PRM), Waren Mill (MSH) and Woodhorn Flashes (PRM), 100-135 at East Holywell and Lesbury, and 61-98 at Big Waters, Earsdon and Prestwick Carr. Counts of 28-44 came from Backworth Flash, Cresswell Pond, East Ord, Grindon Lough and West Hartford, and two to 16 at seven further sites.

Canada Goose Branta canadensisGrindon Lough attracted a peak of 382 on 6th (SJH), 230 were at Bothal Pond on 13th (TD), 101 at Fontburn Reservoir on 18th (TRD/JD), 50-76 at Derwent Reservoir, Druridge Pools and East Chevington (IFo/MSH/PRM), 21-46 at Newcastle Leazes Park, QEII CP, the Tweed Estuary and West Ord, and 11-18 at Big Waters, Prestwick Carr and Woodhorn Flashes, and two to eight at Arcot Pond, Hartburn Reservoir and Hauxley Reserve. A flock was heard over Wark during darkness on 23rd (PRM). Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis200 were at Harper’s Heugh near Budle Bay on 9th (SV/AJM) and between 29th-31st (DGB/JPL), and 90 in Budle Bay on 27th (CGK/MSH/MJC). One was at Tynemouth Boating Lake between 6th-30th (PJA/CDB/KWY).

A Barnacle GooseTynemouth Boating Lake

by Chris Barlow

Brent Goose Branta berniclaPale-bellied hrota race birds included 1,400 in the Elwick/Fenham-le-Moor area on 30th (PRM), about 340 at Budle Bay on 5th (CGK et al.), 23-30 at Beal Point (Lindisfarne NNR), Boulmer and Budle Bay (TRD/JD/MSH/SS), and three at Stag Rocks. Dark-bellied bernicla race birds involved 75 at Holy Island on 27th (JPD), 60 at Budle Bay on 5th (CGK et al.), and two to five at Boulmer, Cheswick and Newbiggin. Un-raced birds involved 75 near Holy Island castle on 28th (CDB), 40 at East Chevington on 26th (TB) and four at Boulmer.

Shelduck Tadorna tadornaA total of 874 were in the Fenham-le-Moor and Elwick areas of Lindisfarne NNR on 30th (PRM), and 150 were at Budle Bay on 13th (DM/STH). Elsewhere, 21 were at the Blyth Estuary on 13th (LJM), 11 at Howdon Wetland NR on 1st (CB/ME), six at Hauxley Reserve, and one to two at Castle Island, Cresswell Pond, East Chevington, Elswick, Hadston Carrs, Holy Island Rocket Fields and Newburn Haugh. One was well inland at Branton GP on 9th (MSH/JCD).

Mandarin Aix galericulataA pair, with Mallard, was found at Allerwash Hall on the River Tyne on 5th while the observer was kayaking (JL).

Wigeon Anas penelopeTwo flew N at Cullernose Point on 20th (SS). 600 were on the sea in Druridge Bay on 4th (MSH), 600 were at Cresswell Pond on 23rd (JPD), 517 at Big Waters on 11th was a site record (AJJ per GB), 300 were at Druridge Pools on 3rd (AJR), 250 at East Chevington (PRM), 153-179 at Arcot Pond, Elwick (Lindisfarne), Grindon Lough and Whittle Dene Reservoirs, 90-118 at Amble, Bothal Pond, Derwent Reservoir and Hauxley Reserve, and 60 at Gosforth Park NR. Counts of 16-38 came from QEII CP Lake, West Stobswood Pool and Woodhorn Flashes.

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Gadwall Anas streperaPeak counts were 25 at Arcot Pond on 6th and 12th (STH/LJM), 21 at the Blyth Estuary on 26th (STH), 17 at Holywell Pond on 30th (MHp), ten to 12 at Big Waters, East Chevington and QEII CP Lake, and six at Linton Ponds. Three to four were also at Bothal and Cresswell Ponds, Capheaton Lake, Gosforth Park NR, Holy Island Lough (unusual there in winter; IK) and Woodhorn Flashes, and one at Newton Pool. Several were heard calling at Backworth during darkness on 5th (CGK et al.).

Teal Anas creccaPeak concentrations were 404 at Big Waters on 30th (AJJ per GB), 380 at Holy Island Rocket Fields on 27th (SS), 295 at Whittle Dene Reservoirs on 18th (SR), 250 at Grindon Lough on 6th (SJH), 200 at Howdon Wetland NR on 1st (CB/ME), 174-180 at East Chevington and Elswick (River Tyne), and 100-117 at Arcot, Cresswell and Linton Ponds, Druridge Bay and St Mary’s Island. Counts of 50-91 came from Amble, Big Waters (some displaying; GB), Bothal Pond, Newburn Haugh, Tyne Green (Hexham), West Hartford and West Ord, and 12-31 at Castle Island, Druridge Pools, Gosforth Park NR, Hauxley Reserve, Middle Ord and Swallow Ponds, Monks’ House Pool and Woodhorn Flashes. Two at Killingworth Lake on 23rd were unusual for the locality (LJM).

Mallard Anas platyrhynchosThe largest gatherings were 279 at Big Waters on 26th (GB), 237 at Whittle Dene Reservoirs on 18th (SR), 204 at the Tweed Estuary on 11th (MHu), 142 at Cocklawburn Pond on 29th (MHu), and 100-115 at Castle Island (DM/STH), Elwick (PRM), Fontburn Reservoir (TRD/JD) and Holy Island Lough (105 on 25th was unusually high count for the site and may have involved birds frozen off mainland ponds; IK). Counts of 55-70 came from Derwent Reservoir, Holywell, Linton (display noted; CDH) and West Allotment Ponds, Newcastle Leazes Park, QEII CP Lake and Tyne Green (Hexham), and 22-43 from Arcot, Bothal and Duke’s Ponds, Gosforth Park NR, Grindon Lough, Hauxley Reserve, Longhirst Flash, Newcastle Exhibition Park and Woodhorn Flashes.

Pintail Anas acutaAt Lindisfarne NNR peak counts were 106 at Elwick on 30th (PRM) and 96 at Fenham Flats on 27th (GB/STH/ML/DM). In the south of the county up to eight (six drakes, two ducks) were at Druridge Pools between 23rd-26th (CDB/STE), two drakes at Big Waters on 29th and three drakes on 30th-31st (AJJ per GB), and singles (all drakes where stated) at Cresswell Pond, Holywell Pond, St Mary’s Wetland and Whittle Dene Reservoirs.

Pintail fly in to Druridge Poolsby Chris Barlow

Shoveler Anas clypeataSwallow Pond had 13 on 3rd and 11 on 1st (JPD), 11 were at Holy Island Lough on 30th (PRM) and up to ten regularly there during the month (IK), eight at East Chevington on 17th (PRM), six at Cresswell Pond on 17th (TRD), three at Killingworth Lake (LJM/BMo), and one to two at Budle Bay and Monks’ House Pool.

Pochard Aythya ferinaNumbers were generally rather low, with peaks of 31 at Killingworth Lake on 15th (LJM), 17 at Swallow Pond on 31st (JPD), eight to nine at East Chevington (IRD) and QEII CP Lake (GB), and three to four at Grindon Lough, Holywell and Swallow Ponds. One to two were also at Bothal, Linton and West Allotment Ponds, and Derwent Reservoir.

A Drake PochardKillingworth Lake

Chris Barlow

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Tufted Duck Aythya fuligulaGood numbers were at Killingworth Lake, with a notable 228 on 6th (JPD) and 154 on 12th (LJM). Other peak counts were 101 at Branton GP on 13th (SS), 86 at East Chevington on 13th (DM/STH), 65 at Swallow Pond on 1st (JPD), 51 at QEII CP Lake (CDH), and 20-41 at Arcot, Bothal and Linton Ponds, Grindon Lough, Tynemouth Park, Whittle Dene Reservoirs and Woodhorn Flashes. Ten to 17 were also at Cheswick, Cresswell Pond, Druridge Pools, and Newcastle Exhibition and Leazes Parks, and two to seven at eight further sites, including one at the Tweed Estuary on 11th (Mhu).

Scaup Aythya marilaTwo were inland at Branton GP between 13th-15th (SS/IBDa/KDa). Singles were at East Chevington on 1st (GB et al.) and 5th (CGK et al.) and Holywell Pond on 7th (CS). A drake was on the ‘R. Tyne’ (locality not given) on 26th (JL).

Eider Somateria mollissima72 were at Holy Island on 30th (PRM), 50 at Fenham Flats on 30th (PRM), 49 at Blyth Harbour on 12th (STH), 30 at North Shields Fish Quay (MN), 18 at Warkworth weir (DM/STH), nine to 12 at Berwick North Shore and the Tweed Estuary, and two at St Mary’s Island. Many displaying groups were at Holy Island Harbour/St Cuthbert’s Island on 13th (IK).

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalisA total of 69 on 11th consisted of 34 at Holy Island Heugh, 24 at Stag Rocks and 11 at Holy Island castle (AA/MH). Other peak counts were 20 in the North Shore-Sandon Bay area of Holy Island on 13th (SR/AH), eight at Fenham Flats (DGB), seven at Beadnell Bay (JPL/SMa), and three to four at Annstead, Berwick, Low Newton and the Tweed Estuary. Cresswell Pond, Druridge Pools, East Chevington and Seahouses all attracted two on various dates, and singles were at Amble, Cheswick, Newbiggin, Holy Island causeway and Newton Pool. More unusual was an immature drake at the Blyth Estuary on at least four dates between 1st-22nd (MHp/LJM). Display was noted at Holy Island on 13th (IK).

Long-tailed Duck at Cresswell Pond by Chris BarlowCommon Scoter Melanitta nigraNumbers were unexceptional, with peaks of 100 at Stag Rocks on 6th (JPL), 42 at Cheswick on 24th (MHu), 19 at Beadnell Bay (JPL/SMa), and ten at Howick Haven (MRM). One to six were also at Druridge Bay, Low Newton, Spittal Bay and St Mary’s Island. A drake was inland at Whittle Dene Reservoirs on 28th (SR).

Velvet Scoter Melanitta fuscaOne flew N at Berwick pier on 6th (MHu) and three flew S at St Mary’s Island on 13th (SPP). Singles were at Alnmouth Bay on 11th (MRM) and Beadnell Bay on 13th (SMa).

Goldeneye Bucephala clangulaFour flew N at St Mary’s Island on 26th (JPD). The Tweed Estuary attracted 194 on 11th (MHu), 75 were off Spittal on 3rd (JMA), 48 at East Chevington on 24th (PRM), 30 at Low Newton on 29th (TRD/JD), 29 at Swallow Pond on 8th (a notable count for the site; JPD), 25-28 at QEII CP Lake and West Ord, and ten to 18 at Annstead, Beadnell Bay, Branton GP, Grindon Lough Howick Haven, Killingworth Lake and Whittle Dene Reservoirs. Five to nine were also at Berwick North Shore, Big Waters, the Blyth Estuary, Bothal and Cresswell Ponds, Castle Island and Dilston, and one to two at 14 further scattered sites.

A handsome drake Goldeneye at Killingworth Pond on 16th January by Adriana Buskin

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Smew Mergellus albellusA ‘redhead’ was noted at East Chevington (north and south pools) on seven dates between 1st-24th (CB/ME/PRM et al.).

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serratorTen were at Cocklawburn on 10th (MHu), eight at Spittal Bay on 23rd (MHu), five to six at the Blyth and Tweed Estuaries, East Chevington North Pool, Holy Island, Newbiggin and West Ord, and three to four at Cresswell Pond, Druridge Bay and Stag Rocks. One to two were also at Amble, Beadnell and Blyth Bays, Berwick North Shore, Boulmer, Budle Bay, Castle Island, Druridge Pools and Low Newton.

Goosander Mergus merganserLargest flocks were 11 at Wylam on 28th (JSB), nine at Tyne Green (Hexham) on 18th (RMH), and five at the Aln and the Tweed Estuaries, Newcastle Exhibition Park, on the R. Tyne between Haydon Bridge-Hexham, and Whittle Dene Reservoirs. Three to four were at Airy Holm Reservoir, Dilston, Killingworth and QEII CP Lakes, Wark and West Ord, and one to two at Branton GP, Capheaton Lake, the Coquet Estuary, Jesmond Dene, Morpeth, Newcastle Leazes Park and Thrum Mill (Rothbury).

Red Grouse Lagopus lagopusOnly three reports were received. Four birds were on Plenmeller Common on 26th with three present there on 24th (SJH). One was at Winter’s Gibbet (Ottercops Moss) on 5th (DM/STH/GB/LAR). Red-legged Partridge Alectoris rufaThe peak counts were 30 at Hartley West Farm (Holywell Dene) on 24th (RJP) and 14 at Allenbanks on 20th (JL). Four were at Carterway Heads, where they are uncommon, on 28th (Ifo). Singles were noted by the A1 south of Belford, Espley Hall and Woodhorn.

Grey Partridge Perdix perdixThe peak counts were 26 at Alnmouth on 6th (IBDa/KDa) and 18 throughout the month at Chare Ends dunes (Holy Island), which was the largest flock seen on the island for many years (IK et al.). Counts of 12 came from Hemscott Hill Farm (Cresswell) on 5th (DM/STH/GB/LAR), West Ord on 6th (MHu), Glororum (Bamburgh) on 21st/26th (JHa) and Lucker on 23rd (JHa). Ten were at Newbiggin on 4th (GB) and East Chevington on 8th (MHp/TRC). Seven were at Druridge Pools on 23rd (MSH) and Beal Point on 24th (TRD/JD). Four to six were noted at Amble Braid, Beehive Flash (Earsdon), Cresswell, Druridge Links, Ellington, Hepscott Park, Lesbury, Warkworth Gut, West Hartford, Whitchester (Haltwhistle) and Woodhorn Flashes. Singles were at East Chevington and St Mary’s Wetland.

Pheasant Phasianus colchicusEight (three males) were in a Walbottle garden on 27th (KR/LR). Two were seen throughout the month at Hartley West Farm (Holywell Dene). Two duelling males were at West Hartford on 12th and a single was at Hauxley on 5th.

A cock pheasant in a Woolsington garden by John Littleton

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Red-throated Diver Gavia stellataAt Cocklawburn 15 flew S in 30 minutes on 17th (MHu). At St Mary’s Island six flew S on 26th and four flew S on 23rd (JPD). Peak offshore counts were ten at Newbiggin on 25th (AT), nine at Howick Haven on 6th (SS), eight in Druridge Bay on 4th (MSH), five off Stag Rocks on 10th (JDL) and four at East Chevington on 24th (PRM). One to three were noted at Amble, Berwick Pier, Blyth (Bay, Estuary and South Beach), Beadnell Bay, Boulmer, Budle Bay, Cheswick, Cocklawburn, Holy Island, Snab Point (Cresswell), Spittal Bay (Berwick) and Warkworth Dunes.

Black-throated Diver Gavia arcticaA single was off Stag Rocks on 11th (AA/MH) and a juvenile was in Hartley Bay on 13th (SPP).

Great Northern Diver Gavia immerOne flew N at Holy Island on 27th (TRD/JD). Two were off Church Point (Newbiggin) on 3rd (AJR) and a single was off Stag Rocks on 5th/6th/11th/27th (PRM/TB/AA/MH/JPD). Fulmar Fulmarus glacialisThree flew N at Stag Rocks on 5th (PJA). Return to breeding colonies was noted at several sites. 56 were at Nessend (Holy Island) on 8th (SR). Numbers at Howick increased from ca.30 on 5th (SS) to ca. 50 by 9th (STE). In the south east 22 were at High Point (Whitley Bay) on 13th (MN), 11 at Hartley cliffs on 24th (SPP) and eight at Cullercoats on 12th (ASJ). At other breeding sites one to five were present at Bamburgh Castle, Tynemouth cliffs and Union Bridge (Berwick). One to four were noted offshore at East Chevington, Holy Island, Newbiggin and Stag Rocks.

Gannet Morus bassanusThree flew S at Cullernose Point on 20th (SS) and singles were noted off Holy Island on 8th/13th (SR/AT).

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carboThe peak counts were 59 at North Shields Fish Quay on 8th (JPD), 50 at Blyth South Harbour on 12th (STH), 17 at Meadow Haven (Berwick) on 27th (MHu), 16 at Berwick North Shore on 9th (MHu), 12 at Amble Harbour on 5th (IRD), 11 at QEII Lake on 13th (CDH) and eight at Big Waters on 12th (GB). One to five were noted at Amble Weir, Dilston (Corbridge), Druridge Bay, Elswick Wharf, Hadston Carrs, Holywell Dene, Linton Ponds, Newburn Haugh, flying over the A697 near Ponteland, Prestwick Carr, St Mary’s Island, Spittal, Tweed Estuary, Tyne Green (Hexham), West Allotment Pond and flying E along the River Blyth at West Hartford.Reports of sinensis race birds involved singles at Branton GP on 9th (MSH/JCD) and at Linton Pond on 31st (PRM).

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelisPeak counts were 24 in Blyth South Harbour on 12th (STH), 20 in Spittal Bay (Berwick) on 17th (MHu), ten at Berwick North Shore on 9th (MHu) and six in Druridge Bay on 4th (TRD/JD). Five were offshore at East Chevington on 13th and Blyth South Beach on 16th (TRD/JD). One to two were noted at Holy Island, Newbiggin, Stag Rocks and the Tweed Estuary.

Bittern Botaurus stellarisTwo were again present throughout the month at Gosforth Park NR (NHSN). Two were at East Chevington on 1st (TRD/JD) where a single was seen on 5th (TB). Two were seen at Swallow Pond on 19th and again on 26th when they flew in high from W (JPD). A single was seen here on six further dates from 20th-31st (JPD/SPP/AJ). A single was at Linton Pond on 29th (AT).

One of the Gosforth NR bitterns in flight23rd January by Chris Barlow

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibisThe second for Northumberland, the first being on private land at Barrasford in 1986, attracted much attention. It was identified on 26th, having been present since 23rd according to local people in a Crooked Lonnen house garden (IK). It continued to be seen daily until 31st (many observers).

Little Egret Egretta garzettaTwo were at Fenham Mill (Lindisfarne NNR) on 5th (TB) and two were seen in the Lindisfarne NNR on 5th with one at Holy Island Causeway and one in Budle Bay (DM/STH) . Singles were noted in the Lindisfarne NNR area on seven further dates with records from Beal Sluice, Budle Bay, Fenham Flats and Holy Island Causeway. Elsewhere singles were in the Tweed Estuary on 15th and at Warkworth Gut on 20th. Grey Heron Ardea cinereaThe peak counts were 19 in the Tweed Estuary on 11th (MHu), eight at Old Hartley on 12th (ASJ) and five at Hauxley on 5th (MB/RB), Hartley West Farm (Holywell Dene) on 8th (RJP) and throughout the month at Gosforth Park NR (NHSN). Elsewhere one to two were noted at Amble Weir, Arcot Pond, Berwick North Shore, Boulmer, Cramlington (Northburn), Dilston (Corbridge), Druridge Pools, East Chevington, Highford Bridge (Morpeth), Holy Island, Leazes Park (Newcastle), Linton Pond, Monk’s House Pool, Newbiggin, Newcastle Great North Park, Rising Sun CP, Seahouses Harbour, Tyne Green (Hexham), Wark and Woodhorn Flashes.

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Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollisThe peak counts were seven at Kitty Brewster (Blyth Estuary) on 17th (MHp/TRC), six at Hedgeley GP on 9th (MSH/JCD), four at Tyne Green (Hexham) on 6th (AJH) and Bothal Pond on 17th (TRD) and three at Cresswell Pond on 1st, Hauxley on 5th, Whittle Dene Reservoirs on 6th/28th, Tweed Estuary on 11th and Berwick Old Bridge on 23rd. One to two were noted at Big Waters, Branton GP, Capheaton Lake, Castle Island, Derwent Reservoir, East Chevington, Killingworth Lake, Morpeth (High Stanners and Scotch Gill), QEII Lake, Wallsend Gut and Woodhorn Flashes.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatusThe only record was of one at Holy Island on 16th (SR).

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegenaThe species continued to be scarce this winter with only singles being noted off Holy Island on 6th (CB) and Stag Rocks on 30th (BMo).

Slavonian Grebe Podiceps auritusOn 11th at least 18 were off Holy Island in The Heugh and Castle area with a further 12 off Stag Rocks (AA/MH). Nine to ten were seen off Holy island on 13th/29th (IK/DGB), whilst at Stag Rocks up to six were seen on seven further dates. The bird found at Leazes Park (Newcastle) in December remained until 1st. A single was at East Chevington North Pool from 1st -5th (many observers).

Red Kite Milvus milvusA single bird was noted at Wooler on 14th and 16th (NNBC) and other singles were seen near Corbridge on 20th (RMH) and at Ovington on 31st (SAS). Hen Harrier Circus cyeanausA ringtail was at one site on several dates throughout the month (PCF/GB et al.) and a male was at another site on the 7th (IFo). Goshawk Accipiter gentilisThe only record involved a bird seen flying off near Harbottle on 28th (JMA).

Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisusThree were at Swallow Pond on 6th (JPD) and two birds were seen at Scotland Gate (SLB/MSK) and at Holywell Dene (RJP) throughout the Month. While single birds were seen regularly at Heddon on the Wall (JSB), Rothbury (TRD/JD) and at Stamfordham (EC) during January. Single birds were also noted at 22 further sites. Common Buzzard Buteo buteoFour birds were seen at Bothal on 9th (AT) and three were noted at Derwent reservoir on 25th (IFo), Keepershield (North Tyne) on 28th (PRM) and at Grindon Lough on 29th (SJH). Two birds were at Alnwick, Belsay, Capheaton, Pegswood & Plenmeller Common. Single birds were noted at over 20 sites during the Month.

A Common Buzzard over Tranwell on 31st January by Peter Tapsell

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Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopusSingle birds were reported at Lucker on 25th (PRM) and at Harper's Heugh (Budle Bay) on 29th (DHa et al.).

Kestrel Falco tinninculusTwo males were at Woodhorn Flash on 24th (PRM), and a single bird was noted in an observer’s garden near Stannington throughout the month (RWM/MIM). Single birds were observed at a further 20 sites.

Merlin Falco columbariusSingle birds were noted at 19 sites on or near the coast and a single bird was seen hunting Skylarks over farmland at Smeafield on 13th (STH/DM).

Peregrine Falco peregrinusThree birds were seen in the Fenham Flats area on 13th (STH/DM) and the 27th (JPD/ASJ). Up to two birds were on or near Holy Island on a handful of dates (IK/SR/AH et al.) and two birds were also noted on the River Blyth Estuary on 23rd (JPD/ASJ). 27 records of single birds came from 20 sites.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticusSwallow Pond peaked at five birds on 29th (SPP) with between one to three seen or heard on several dates (JPD et al.). Three birds were also at Gosforth Park NR on 3rd (GB) and Holy Island Lough on 16th (SR). Singles were seen or heard at Backworth Pond, Big Waters, Branton GP, Cresswell Pond, Earsdon and East Chevington.

Moorhen Gallinula chloropusHigh counts this month included 39 at Swallow Pond on 19th (JPD), 16 at QEII CP on 13th (CDH) and at Big Waters on 20th (GB). 14 birds were at Druridge Bay CP on 17th (PRM), 12 were at Silverlink Park LNR on 25th (CGK) and 11 were at Castle Island on 13th (DM/STH). One to nine birds were at fifteen further sites.

MoorhenGosforth NR

Colin Bradshaw

Coot Fulica atraThe QEII CP again had the highest count this with 138 birds present on 13th (CDH) followed by 101 birds at Killingworth Lake on 12th (LJM). 75 birds were at East Chevington on 17th (PRM), 66 birds were at Arcot Pond on 27th (LJM), and at Woodhorn Flash 62 birds were counted on 24th (PRM). 30 were at Bothal Pond on 13th (TD) and at Big Waters on 26th 24 birds were seen (GB). One to thirteen birds were at 11 other sites.

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegusThe WeBS count at Berwick North Shore produced 246 on 9th whilst elsewhere in that area there were 84 at Cocklawburn on 10th and 32 on the Tweed Estuary on 11th (MHu). Staying in the north, 50+ were at Boulmer on 6th (RB/MB) and 41 at Howick Haven on 6th (SS). Moving south, 30-37 were noted at Amble Links, Hauxley NR and St Mary’s Island (JMA/CDB), and 17 were on fields at Gloucester Lodge (Blyth; MSH). Six were also noted at Newbiggin but inland sightings included eight at Dilston (Corbridge) on 25th (RB/MB) and one to three at Hedgeley GP, Hexham (displaying pair), West Ord and Whittle Dene Reservoirs.

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticulaPeak counts included 40 at Newbiggin (TRD/JD) and 38 on the Blyth Estuary (DM/STH/PJA), both on 1st, and ten at Berwick North Shore on 9th (MHu). Other coastal reports included two to six noted at Boulmer, Fenham-le-Moor, Long Nanny, Monks’ House Pool, St Mary’s Island and Snab Point (Cresswell).

Golden Plover Pluvialis apricariaSome good sized flocks were reported, particularly in the south east where ca.500 were at St Mary’s Island on 16th (TRD/JD), ca.400 at East Holywell on 27th (MNC), 327 on fields at Gloucester Lodge (Blyth) on 25th (MSH) and 200 flying N over Wallsend on 12th (JPD). Other gatherings included 320 at Derwent Reservoir on 13th (IFo), 300 at Holy Island Causeway on 24th (TRD/JD), 111 near Peepy Farm, near Stocksfield on 13th (SAS) and 100 on the Blyth Estuary on 1st/26th (DM/STH/PJA). Smaller groups involved 40-86 at Budle Bay, Coquet Point, Cullernose Point, Druridge Bay, East Chevington, Howick, Newbiggin (Sandy Bay), Plenmeller Common (41 flew off SW on 15th) and Prestwick Carr; and 20-26 at Cocklawburn and Newcastle Town Moor. Reports of single-figure groups came from several other localities including inland at Dilston (Corbridge) and Lanehead. Three birds were seen feeding on a snow-covered sports field during the night (20.10hrs) at the Royal Grammar School (Jesmond) on 15th (GB).

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Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarolaA peak of twenty at Newbiggin on 1st was a good count for the south (TRD/JD) and several further reports were made at this location. Reports from the north included 15 at Fenham-le-Moor on 24th (TRD/JD) and ten at Berwick North Shore on 9th (MHu). Four were noted on the 24th at both East Chevington beach (PRM) and heading N at St Mary’s Island (SPP) and singles were seen at Beal Point (Lindisfarne NNR), the Blyth Estuary, Boulmer, Cheswick Black Rocks, Holy Island Harbour and Snab Point (Cresswell).

Lapwing Vanellus vanellusSome big flocks in the south included 700 at Holywell Pond on 9th (JPD), 550-600 at Cresswell Pond between 2nd-3rd (JPD/AJR), 325 at St Mary’s on 16th (ASJ) and 520 inland at Derwent Reservoir on 6th (IFo). Flocks of 100-150 were noted at Ashington (Cooper’s Kennel Fields), East Chevington, Grindon Lough and Whittle Dene Reservoirs, whilst 50-80 were at near Amble, Aydon (near Corbridge), Big Waters, Morpeth (Whorral Bank), Peepy Farm (near Stocksfield), Swallow Pond and West Hartford. Smaller numbers were reported from a further 12 sites.

Knot Calidris canutusEstimates of ca.1,000 were made at Budle Bay on 13th (DM/STH) and from Holy Island causeway on 24th (TRD/JD), with a further 300 noted at Fenham-le-Moor also on 24th (TRD/JD). Amble Braid held 17 on 20th (NFO), three to six were reported from Cresswell Pond on 27th/31st (IRD/TRD) and singles were noted at East Chevington beach, Low Newton, Newbiggin and St Mary’s Island.

Sanderling Calidris albaSome excellent numbers were in the south with 160 on East Chevington beach on 24th (PRM), 150+ in south bay at St Mary’s Island on 9th (SPP) and 115 at Blyth South Beach (Meggie’s Burn mouth roost) on 24th (MHp). Further north, highs included 75 at Low Newton on 29th (TRD/JD), 60+ at Wellhaugh Point (Amble) on 4th (MSH) and 40 at both Berwick North Shore on 9th (MHu) and Druridge Bay on 5th (RB/MB). Some five to 16 were also seen at Newbiggin and Sandstell Point (Spittal, Berwick).

Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritimaWell reported from Stag Rocks (Bamburgh) throughout the month, with the highest total being 92 on 29th (DGB); just to the south, 28 were counted at Low Newton on 27th (ASJ). Other gatherings included 24 at Berwick North Shore on 9th (MHu) and 20 at St Mary’s Island on 9th (SPP), whilst maximum counts elsewhere included eight at Cheswick Black Rocks and Snab Point (Cresswell), three at Howick Haven, Newbiggin and Seahouses and two at Craster and Holy Island.

Dunlin Calidris alpinaA similar pattern to last month with ca. 1,000 seen from Holy Island Causeway on 24th (TRD/JD) and smaller numbers elsewhere. Good-sized groups included 295 at Amble Braid on 20th (NFO), 250+ in south bay at St Mary’s Island on 3rd (SPP), 200 at Fenham-le-Moor on 24th (TRD/JD), 153 at Newbiggin on 25th (AT), 150 at Cresswell Pond on 23rd (JPD/ASJ) and 70+ on East Chevington beach on 24th (PRM). A further 20 were noted on the Blyth Estuary on 1st (DM/STH/PJA) and at Boulmer on 6th (RB/MB) and two to nine were seen at Berwick North Shore, in fields at Gloucester Lodge (Blyth), Holywell Pond, Long Nanny and Low Newton. Ruff Philomachus pugnasThree were briefly on Swallow Pond before flying off E on 23rd (PRM).

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimusA site in the Cramlington area held one on 1st and three on 5th (DM/PJA et al.) and three were in stubble near the Beehive at Earsdon on 24th (CS). One to two were noted at Backworth on several dates (CGK), one at Duke's Pond on 17th/20th/23rd and singles at Big Waters on 1st, West Monkseaton on 14th, Swallow Pond on 23rd and Newbiggin and Howdon Wetland on 25th.

A Jack SnipeHowdon Wetlands

Colin Bradshaw

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Snipe Gallinago gallinagoSt Mary’s Wetland had roosting peaks in hard weather of 55 on 12th, 70 on 16th, 76 on 24th and 88 on 26th (MSH/ASJ/SPP/JPD) and 40+ were at Gosforth Park NR and adjacent pool on 3rd (NHSN). The peak at Cresswell Pond reached 20 on 26th (IRD), 13 were at Holywell Pond on 16th, 11 at Howick on 20th and ten at Earsdon on 24th. Five to eight were noted on occasions at Arcot Pond, Blyth, Cramlington, Howdon Wetland and Swallow Pond and three or fewer at a further eight places.

A Common SnipeHowdon WetlandsColin Bradshaw

Woodcock Scolopax rusticolaSix were at Swallow Pond on 19th/20th (JPD), three were at Gosforth Park NR on 21st (NHSN) and two each at Capheaton on 2nd (STE), Hexham on 18th (AJH) and Howick on 20th (SS); also the tide-line remains of two were found at Blyth, South Beach between 21st and 23rd (MHp). Singles were at another 25 locations, mainly in the south of the County.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosaThe majority occurred at Holy Island: nine from the causeway on 28th (CDB) and one in the Rocket Field Pools from 13th to the month’s end (IK). Four were at Hadston Carrs on 5th (CDB).

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponicaAround 2,000 were at Beal Point on 24th (TRD/JD) and about 100 at Fenham-le-Moor the same day. Apart from 29 in the Blyth Estuary on 26th (STH) and 11 at Cocklawburn on 10th there were single-figure counts at Berwick, Budle Bay, Cheswick, Cresswell Pond, Hadston Carrs, Holy Island, Newbiggin and St Mary’s.

Curlew Numenius arquataSubstantial counts were of 410+ roosting in fields at high tide at Elwick on 30th (PRM) and around 400 were on Holy Island regularly throughout (IK). Boulmer Steel held about 200 on 9th (STE) and 100-152 were at Cresswell Pond, Holywell Dene, Howick, Howick Haven and St Mary’s on occasions. Berwick, the Blyth Estuary area, Druridge Pools, Hauxley NR and Newbiggin had 57-90 at times and smaller numbers appeared at ten other places at or near the coast.

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropusTwo were at Whittle Dene Reservoirs on 20th (AA) with singles noted there on four other dates. One was at Hedgeley GP on 13th and one flew over Longhirst Flash, also on 13th.

Greenshank Tringa nebulariaOne was seen in Budle Bay on 5th/6th, 24th and 30th (PJA et al.).

Redshank Tringa totanusThe Tweed Estuary WeBS count revealed 336 on 11th (MHu) and the St Mary’s Wetland roost contained a maximum of 260 on 16th (ASJ). The high-tide roost at Cresswell Pond held about 170 on 11th (EC/JSB), 150+ were at Howdon Wetland NR on 1st (CB/ME) and 117 were on the R Tyne at Elswick Wharf on 3rd (DM). Newbiggin had 54 on 5th and smaller numbers were found at Beal, Berwick, Bothal Pond, Castle Island, Druridge Pools and East Chevington.

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Turnstone Arenaria interpresAt least 120 were on the beach at East Chevington on 24th (PRM), 78 were logged at Berwick on 9th (MHu) with 55 in the Tweed Estuary on 6th (MHu). Low Newton attracted 30 on 29th, St Mary’s 20 on 6th with 12 or fewer at Amble, the Blyth Estuary, Boulmer, Newbiggin, Snab Point, Stag Rocks and Tyneside Park.

A Turnstone poses in the winter sun for Tim DeanAmble Harbour 17th January

Razorbill Alca tordaFour were in Druridge Bay on 4th (MSH) and on the following day three were seen off Snab Point (STH/DM). Singles were at Newbiggin on 9th and 25th (AT).

Little Auk Alle alleOn 5th one was on the sea at Stag Rocks (Bamburgh) with a Guillemot (PJA).

Guillemot Uria aalge At Cocklawburn on 17th four were noted (MHu), three were off Snab Point on 5th (DM et al.) and two offshore at East Chevington NWT on 17th (PRM). Singles were also seen at Snab Point on other dates throughout the month.

Kittiwake Rissa tridactylaPassage was evident on 23rd when 100/hour moved S close inshore at Snab Point of which ca.20% were first-winters (STE). Elsewhere single adults were at Blyth Harbour, Cullernose Point and Low Newton with a first-winter bird on the beach at East Chevington.

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus The largest concentrations were 365 at QE II CP Lake on 13th (CDH), 250 in Budle Bay on 3rd (JMA), 240 in the Tweed Estuary during a WeBS survey on 11th (MHu) and 210 at Castle Island on 13th (DM/STH/PJA). Lesser gatherings of 100-130 were at Holywell Pond, Jesmond Dene, Leazes Park, Silverlink Park LNR and Tyne Green (Hexham). Up to 100 were at Arcot Pond, Berwick North Shore, Big Waters, Bywell (Stocksfield), Exhibition Park, Hauxley NWT and Newbiggin plus 33 feeding on scraps in an observer’s garden at Walbottle. A long-staying ringed bird which breeds in Norway was again recorded at Amble on 12th (PCF); this bird, J72J, was first recorded in April 2005 as a third-calendar year.

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutusA rare winter sighting in the county was an adult offshore at East Chevington feeding with other gulls on 24th (PRM).

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalusWell reported including two to eight at Newbiggin throughout the month including adults and immatures (AT et al.) and up to three regularly seen at the nearby Woodhorn Flashes. Elsewhere three were at Blyth South Beach with singles at Brierdene, Howick, St. Mary’s Island, Swallow Pond and in the gull roost at the Vickers factory on the River Tyne at Scotswood.

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Common Gull Larus canusThe Derwent Reservoir roost contained an estimated 5,000 birds on 13th (JL) and at least 3,500 were in the Budle Bay roost on 5th (CGK/MSH); 1,000 fed in fields east of the A1 Morpeth Bypass on 3rd (IK) and 600 were ‘loafing on the ice surface’ at Airy Holm Reservoir, near Shotleyfield, on 17th (IFo). Other gatherings of 100-350 were reported from Cocklawburn, Grindon Lough, Middle Ord (Berwick) and Tyne Green (Hexham) with up to 70 at eight other inland and coastal localities.

A Common Gull at Ambleby Peter Fletcher on 12th January

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus graelsiiSightings of three over-wintering adults came from Blyth South Beach on 20th (MHp), Cramlington on 12th (DM) and one overflying Jesmond Dene on 27th (MJCo).

Herring Gull Larus argentatus argenteusThe peak count was ca.1,000 in the roost at the Vickers factory, Scotswood on 12th (JL) with lesser flocks of 102 and 85 recorded at Berwick North Shore and the River Tweed Estuary respectively during WeBS surveys on 9th and 11th (MHu). Castle Island held 23 during a WeBS survey on 13th (DM/STH/PJA) and elsewhere one to 12 were at three inland sites; an all-white albino-leucistic immature was on the River Blyth Estuary on 14th (MHp).

A Herring GullAmble Braid

17th JanuaryTim Dean

'Northern' Herring Gull Larus argentatus argentatusEight birds of this Northern race were on the beach at East Chevington NWT on 24th (PRM), five were in the gull roost at the Scotswood Vickers factory on the River Tyne on 12th (JL) and four were seen at Newburn Haugh on 23rd (PRM).

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoidesThe only report was of an immature bird (either a first- or a second-winter) which flew upstream at the North Shields Fish Quay (NSFQ) on 27th (DRW).

Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreusA first-winter bird was at the NSFQ on 29th (ASJ).

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinusThe gull roost at the Vickers factory (Scotswood) held at least 150 on 12th (JL). Elsewhere, apart from 26 at Budle Bay on 13th (DM/STH), only single-figure counts were recorded comprising one to nine at Berwick North Shore, Big Waters, Dilston (Corbridge), Druridge Pools, Elswick Wharf (River Tyne), Grindon Lough, the River Tweed estuary, Tyne Green (Hexham) and Wark.

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Rock Dove Columba liviaA rock bottom count of one in the observer's garden at Beatty Avenue, South Gosforth on 25th (MJCo).

Stock Dove Columba oenasWallsend Rising Sun C.P. remained popular with 50+ on 3rd and 30 on 1st and 27th (JPD/BMo). All other reports were single figures with six at Backworth, Dunce's House and Big Waters, four in Jesmond Dene, and one to three at nine widely spread locations.

Correction: The count of 178 at Station Road, Wallsend in December 2012 should have been 17.

A Woodpigeon in a frosty Woolsington gardenby John Littleton

Woodpigeon Columba palumbusLarge counts of 1'200 at Whittle Dene Reservoirs on 18th (SR), 1'000 at Fisher Lane (Cramlington) on 1st (LJM), 550 at Sandy Bay (Newbiggin) on 9th (AT), 500+ at Briar Dene Farm (Whitley Bay) on 1st (MSH) and 450+ at Wideopen on 24th (PRM). 13 to 320 were at Arcot Pond, Carterway Heads, Holywell Village, Jesmond Dene, Walbottle and West Ord. Birds visiting gardens numbered 3 to 16 at Alnwick, Dinnington, Stannington, South Gosforth and Walbottle including a juvenile at the latter location.

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaoctoTwenty were at Fenham-le-Moor on 13th, eight in one tree at Horton Burn (Cramlington) on 1st (DM/STH/PJA) with 18 found over 1.5km there on 28th (LJM), seven at Longhirst on 5th (PCF), six at Trent House Beer Garden (Newcastle) on 2nd and two to three at Holy Island, Newbiggin and South Gosforth.

Barn Owl Tyto albaA peak count of four on Holy Island (IK) with singles seen there regularly throughout the month and at Adderstone, West Cawledge (Alnwick), Ancroft, New Moor (Ashington), Beadnell, Meggie's Burn (Blyth), Branton GP, A1 at Brownieside, Druridge Lane, East Chevington, Fowberry, Lee Siding (near Rothbury), Linden Hall, Prestwick Carr and Yearle

A bird at Belford Moor was mantling prey by the roadside (TB) whilst a road casualty near RAF Boulmer had been ringed as a pullus on 12 June 2011 (DM/STH).

Little Owl Athene noctuaA single was present regularly at Rising Sun CP all month (JPD/SPP) and at Dinnington on 11th (PCF), Big Waters on 12th (GB) and calling at Shiremoor on 27th (CGK).

Tawny Owl Strix alucoThree males called at Wark (North Tyne) on 9th (PRM) and at Linden Hall (Longhorsley) on 17th (NFO) with two or more singing at Scotland Gate during the month and two at Belford Moor, Holywell Dene on 5th (TB / CGK) and Capheaton on 6th (STE). Singles were at Big Waters, Valley Park (Cramlington), Havannah NR, Howick, Prestwick Carr, Rothbury and Wark with one road casualty near Horsley on 18th.

Long-eared Owl Asio otusA garden roost at Holy Island held up to three during the month with two there on 27th (IK/CB) and a single was at Prestwick Carr on 23rd (PCF). Six birds were trapped and ringed at Rising Sun CP (Wallsend) during the month.

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeusFour were at Rising Sun CP on 25th/26th (ASJ/BMo/JPD) with three trapped and ringed there during the month and three to four at Holy Island (IK/CB/DGB). Two were at Prestwick Carr and East Chevington with singles at all the aforementioned sites on various dates and Bamburgh, Berwick, Cresswell / Druridge Bay area, Cocklawburn, Grindon Lough, Holywell Pond, Otterburn Ranges, Simonside Hills, West Hartford and Woodhorn.

A Short-eared Owl at Prestwick Carr by Peter Fletcher

17th January

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Kingfisher Alcedo atthisAll reports were of single birds regularly at Branton Gravel Pits, Big Waters, Horton Burn (Cramlington), Swallow Pond and at Howick Haven, Jesmond Dene, Ridley Stokoe, Thrum Mill (Rothbury) and Whittle Dene Reservoirs.

Green Woodpecker Picus viridisAgain all reports of singles from Gosforth Park NR, Ridley Stokoe and Stonehaugh on 5th, Cramlington on the same date and 26th and Rothbury on 24th and 26th.

Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos majorThree or more were at Gosforth Park NR and adjacent pool during the month (NHSN) with three at South Gosforth on 5th (CGK/MJC/SH/AC), Tyne Green (Hexham) on 6th (AJH) and Jesmond Dene on 20th (MJCo). Two were regularly at Holywell Dene and Northumberland Park (North Shields) on 13th, Valley Park (Cramlington) on 14th, Dilston (Corbridge) on 24th and Big Waters on 26th with singles at 16 other widespread localities.

Magpie Pica picaSome large roost gatherings with Swallow Pond again providing the peak count of 106 on 10th (JPD), 65 at Marden Quarry on (Whitley Bay) on 8th (MN), 47 in a redundant building near Vickers Pressings (Scotswood) on 26th with 40 there on 12th (JL) and 41 at Big Waters on 9th (AJJ per GB). One to eight were at five other locations.

Jay Garrulus glandariusThe largest count was of three at Linden Hall (Longhorsley) on 5th (NFO), two or more at Scotland Gate and Gosforth Park (SLB/MSK/MSH) with two at Swallow Pond on 5th (JPD) and Morpeth on 23rd (TB). Singles were regularly at Arcot Pond, Big Waters and Valley Park (Cramlington) and also at Hedgeley GP, Linton Ponds, Newminster Abbey / Scotch Gill (Morpeth), Northumberland Park (North Shields), Sheepwash, Stannington and Woodhorn.

A Jay in a Tranwell gardenby Peter Tapsell

25th January

Jackdaw Corvus monedula / Rook Corvus frugilegusA mixed flock of 300+ fed on a roundabout at West Moor near Gosforth Park on 28th (PCF).

Jackdaw Corvus monedulaGosforth Park NR attracted large roost counts with estimates of around 3,000 on 3rd & 5th (DM/STH/GB/LAR) and 700+ came to roost at Whittle Dene Reservoirs on 31st (PRM). Sixty were at Beacon Hill (Cramlington) on 1st (DM) with one to nine at Cresswell, Eachwick, Jesmond Dene and in a Walbottle Garden.

A bird showing characteristics of the Nordic species C.m.monedula was at Amble on 12th (PCF).

Rook Corvus frugilegus200 at Elwick on 3rd was the largest count (JMA) with 80+ at Druridge links on 26th (MSH), 50+ at Gallows Hill (Harwood) on 5th (DM/STH/GB/LAR) and 50 at Amble Braid on 10th (JMA).

Carrion Crow Corvus coroneThe Fish Quay (North Shields) area attracted 50 on 9th and 33 on 5th (MN/STE) with five at Druridge Pools on 26th, three at Jesmond Dene on 13th and two in the observer's garden at Walbottle on 27th being the only other reports.

Raven Corvus coraxFour were between Foulplay Knowle and Bluestone Edge at Otterburn Ranges on 6th (JL), three at Grindon Lough on 16th (SJH) and Raylees Common on 24th (IRD) with two at a confidential site in mid-Northumberland and at Capheaton, Cowden, Harthope Valley and a single at Plenmeller Common.

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Goldcrest Regulus regulusThree at Rising Sun CP on 23rd was the highest count (PRM) with two at Harwood Forest on 5th, East Ord on 6th, Monkseaton on 13th, Valley Park (Cramlington) on 14th, Wark (N Tyne) on 14th, Swallow Pond on 20th and Berwick on 24th. Singles were at a further 13 widespread locations.

Tit sp.Low numbers, never more than two at a time of Great, Blue or Coal were noted in the observer's garden at Fulbeck (Morpeth) (TD).

Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleusFeeders at Gosforth Park NR attracted up to 20 during the month (NHSN) with six at Bothal on 3rd (AT), Eachwick on 20th (CDB) and Dilston (Corbridge) on 22nd (RB/MB), five at Jesmond Dene on 27th, three in the observer's garden at South Gosforth on 26th (MJCo) and two at Hauxley and Linton Lane NWT.

Great Tit Parus majorGosforth Park NR feeders attracted 20+ during the month (NHSN), nine at Jesmond Dene on 27th (MJCo), four at Eachwick, two at Hauxley and singles singing at Aydon and South Gosforth.

Coal Tit Periparus aterFour were found in Jesmond Dene on 27th (MJCo), one to three in an Old Hartley garden during the month (RJP) and three singing at Silverlink (North Shields) on 10th and Shiremoor on 29th (CGK). One to two were seen or sang at seven other widespread localities.

An inquisitive Coal Tit at Prestwick Carrby Peter Fletcher on 5th January

Willow Tit Poecile montanusTwo or more regularly attended feeders at Big Waters during the month (GB et al.) with two also at Hadrian's Pond (Wallsend) on 1st (JPD), Prestwick Carr on 26th (PCF) and Rising Sun CP on 26th (BMo). Singles were reported from the above and Branton GP, Bassington NR (Cramlington), Craster, Dinnington, Eachwick, Linton Lane NWT, Lucker, Thrum Mill (Rothbury) and Slaley Hall.

Marsh Tit Poecile palustrisLinden Hall (Longhorsley) had two during the month (NFO) with singles occasionally at Scotland Gate (MSK/SLB), Woodhorn on 2nd (ASJ), Carlisle Park and Scotch Gill Woods (Morpeth) on 5th and 12th (TRD/JD/STH) and Thrum Mill (Rothbury) on 26th (JD).

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Skylark Alauda arvensisHarsh weather attracted a gathering around 1,500 to stubble fields at Newton Links on 20th (CB/ME) with 450+ in fields at Ovington on the same date (SAS), 200+ at Howick on 19th (SS), 130 near Blyth Cemetery on 15th (MNC), 110 moving S at Cresswell Pond on 26th (IRD) and 100 at Cullernose Point on 20th (SS). Groups of 18 to 60 were noted at the Blyth Estuary, Druridge Pools, Holy Island, Newburn Haugh, Ord Industrial Estate and St Mary's Island with one to nine at ten other widespread localities.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatusBy far the largest count was an impressive 32 in a Walbottle garden on 6th; this is the highest number ever recorded here in over 26 years' residence (KR/LR). Up to 18 were noted at Swallow Pond (JPD) and 12 were at North Shields (Northumberland Park) on 13th. Eight to ten were noted at Big Waters, Cramlington (Bassington NR / Southfield Green and Valley Park), Hexham (Tyne Green), Jesmond Dene, Linton Pond, South Gosforth and a Wallsend garden. Six to seven were at Corbridge (Dilston), East Chevington, Gosforth Park NR, Holywell Dene, Newcastle (Leazes Park) and Prestwick Carr and one to five at a further 11 localities.

A Long-tailed Tit at garden fat ballsby Jonathan Farooqi

Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybitaOne at Holy Island (Sandon Bay) on 13th was the only report (SR/AH).

Blackcap Sylvia atricapillaNine wintering individuals were reported. A male was in a Heddon-on-the-Wall garden throughout and a second male on 23rd (JSB). A female was present all month in a Gosforth garden and a male appeared on 5th (STE). Another long-staying female was in a Monkseaton garden from 10th-31st (AAM) and a male was reported from another Monkseaton garden on 7th (per LJM). A female visited at Howick garden on 6th (SS), a male was at Big Waters on 23rd (AJJ) and an un-sexed bird was in a Berwick garden also on 23rd (BWG).

Waxwing Bombycilla garrulousSome sizeable flocks remained, particularly in the south east of the region. The largest gatherings were 50 at Cramlington (Northburn Park) on 28th (JM), 49 at Forest Hall on 26th (JPD), 39 at Gosforth on 1st (CDB) and 30 at Shiremoor on 23rd (SMckie). 15-16 were noted at several other sites in the Cramlington area during the month; 15 were in the Hauxley-Red Row area on 5th and 9th and 14-15 at Woodhorn on 13th. Ten to 11 were reported at Brunswick Industrial Estate, North Seaton and Wallsend and one to six at Bates Minewater Treatment Works, Blyth, Branton GP, East Ord, Holy Island and Prestwick Carr.

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Nuthatch Sitta europaeaFour were noted around the feeding station at Gosforth Park NR on 5th (PJA) and three at Bothal Sawmill on 12th (TB). Two were reported from Jesmond Dene, Morpeth (Scotch Gill Woods), a Stamfordham garden and Wark (North Tyne) and singles at a further eight localities.

Treecreeper Certhia familiarisTwo + were noted at Gosforth Park on 3rd (MSH) and two at Castle Island (GB), Prestwick Carr (PCF) and Swallow Pond (JPD). Singles were widespread from a further 14 localities.

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes11 at Prestwick Carr on 5th was an excellent count by recent standards (PCF). Two were at Cramlington (Southfield Green) on 1st and singles reported from Druridge Pools, Jesmond Dene and Netherton Park. Another singing strongly in Leazes Park (Newcastle) at 01.00hrs on 1st was probably the first ‘year tick’ for the observer.

Starling Sturnus vulgarisA roost count of 827 at Fawdon on 27th was well above the norm of around 50 birds (CDB). Flocks of 78-100 were reported from Alnwick, Big Waters, Grindon Lough and Seahouses and 20-30 at Angerton Lake and Cresswell. One to 15 were reported from a further eight localities.

Starlings flocking to roost over Fawdonby Chris Barlow

Dipper Cinclus cinclusA total of seven were noted on the River Tyne from Haydon Bridge-Hexham on 5th (JL). Up to three were reported from Jesmond Dene and three were displaying together at Rothbury on 6th. Twos and/or pairs were noted at Alnwick (Canongate), Bedlington (Furnace Bridge), Dipton Mill and Holywell Dene and singles at Corbridge (Aydon and Dilston), Cramlington (Horton Burn), Hedgeley GP, Hexham (Tyne Green), Morpeth (Highford Bridge), Pegswood, Ponteland, Rothbury (Thrum Mill) and Wark (North Tyne). Blackbird Turdus merulaA total of 40-50 were counted along the roadside at Prestwick Carr on 6th (AJN) and 41 were feeding on apples in the garden at Slaley Hall on 25th (RMH). More apples (and fruitcake) attracted up to 12 to an Alnwick garden during the month and ten were at Hexham (Tyne Green) on 18th. Nine were at Eachwick on 20th and a roost at North Shields (Cobalt Business Park) also held nine on 25th. The species was common in a Morpeth (Fulbeck) garden all moth, where the peak count was eight on 26th. One to six were reported from a further five localities, including two in full song at the Freeman Hospital (High Heaton) on 3rd and three to four singing, pre-dawn, at Chapel House on 4th.

Fieldfare Turdus pilarisA spell of hard weather during the middle of the month produced some large gatherings. The highest counts were 400+ at Monkseaton on 24th (MSH), 300+ at Woodhorn on 23rd (MSH) and 300 at South Newsham (Blyth) on 24th (MHp); 260 were at West Ord on 27th and 200 at East Holywell on 25th. On Holy Island an influx, probably from the mainland brought 150 on 25th, declining from 120 on 27th to 65+ by the end of the month. Elsewhere 100-110 were reported from Blagdon (Bellasis Bridge), Cocklawburn and Forestburn Gate and 60-80 from Druridge Bay, Holywell Pond, Howick (Hips Heugh) and Prestwick Carr. Flocks of 26-54 were reported from a further 13 widespread localities.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelosThis species was well reported this month. A notable eight were at Cocklawburn on 24th (MHu) and five at West Hartford on 16th (PJA). Birds in full song were heard from 2nd, at Gosforth Park NR, Hexham (town centre), High Heaton, Netherton Park, Newcastle (Leazes Park) and Shiremoor. Two flew W, in off the sea at Blyth on 18th and one to two were reported from a further three coastal and seven inland localities.

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Redwing Turdus iliacusLarger gatherings included 100-100+ at Howick on 19th (SS), Woodhorn Flashes on 24th (PRM) and East Holywell on 25th (MNC). Flocks of 60-70 were reported from Blyth Cemetery on 23rd, Hexham (Swallowship) on16th and Slaley Hall on 13th and 30-40 from Cramlington, Druridge Bay, Newton Links, Swallow Pond, Tynemouth (Marden Farm) and West Hartford. Elsewhere 20-25 were noted at Bilton Mill, Doddington, Ellington, Lynemouth Flash, North Shields and Tynemouth Park and one to 16 at a further 24 widespread localities.

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorusA single flock of ten at Capheaton on 13th was the largest gathering (STE), followed by six at Ellington on 1st (TB). Five+ were on the Otterburn Ranges and four in Jesmond Dene on 6th and three at Druridge Pools, Linden Hall and Swallow Pond. Singing was heard from 4th at Bilton, Jesmond (RGS) and the Simonside Hills. One to two were reported from a further nine localities including a Walbottle garden, where one on 20th was the first record here since January 2011.

Robin Erithacus rubeculaA notable ten were singing along a 1.5 km stretch at Cramlington (Horton Burn) on 28th (LJM) and six were at Aydon (Corbridge) on 18th (RB/MB). Four were singing at Gosforth Park NR on 6th and four was the highest monthly count from a Walbottle garden on 13th. Three were reported from Eachwick and Jesmond Dene and one to two at Druridge Pools, Hauxley and South Gosforth.

A Robin accepts Peter Fletcher's meal-worm

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros Another wintering bird was at Low Newton on 23rd (ASJ) and 27th (MRM). Stonechat Saxicola rubicolaInland birds were four at Branton GP on 19th (IBDa/KDa), three at West Hartford on 6th (STH), two at Prestwick Carr on 3rd and a male at Plenmeller Common on 24th-26th. As usual the vast majority of reports were from coastal areas. Up to three were noted at Cresswell Pond on seven dates and at East Chevington on 13th; elsewhere in Druridge Bay one to two were also reported at Hemscott Hill and Druridge Links. Two were at Coquet Point on 26th, the Long Nanny on 13th, Stag Rocks-Budle Point on 6th and Warkworth Gut on 6th, while singles were noted at Alnmouth, Blyth Harbour, Cheswick, Holy Island and Monks’ House dunes.

Dunnock Prunella modularisFour were in an Old Hartley garden throughout the month (RJP). Two were at Hauxley and Cresswell both on 5th (CDB) whilst singles were at Fenham-le-Moor on 27th (PJA) and in a South Gosforth garden on 26th (MJCo).

House Sparrow Passer domesticus100 at Cullercoats Bay on 8th was the month's highest total (MN). A flock totalling 46 birds was present throughout the month at Northburn (Cramlington) (LJM/PJA). One to 30 were also present at Battlesteads Hotel (Wark), Belle Vue Gardens (Alnwick), Chapel Lands (Alnwick), Cobalt Business Park and Eachwick throughout the month.

Tree Sparrow Passer montanus35 at Holywell Pond on 15th (JPD) and 30 at East Fleetham on 4th (MSH) were the highest counts. 25 were at both Howick on 6th (SS) and Scaffoldhill Farm on 19th (JPD). One to 21 were recorded at a further 19 sites throughout the month.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinereaTwo were at Horton Burn (Cramlington) throughout the month (JM/LJM), Jesmond Dene (Newcastle) on 6th (MJCo) and Whitley Bay Town Centre on several dates (GCK). Single birds were noted at a further 17 sites throughout the month.Correction The Yellow Wagtail at Tynemouth on 3rd the December 2012 bulletin was a Grey Wagtail.

Pied Wagtail Motacilla albaOnly three records were received for the month including two at Newbiggin on 5th (CDB) and two at Snab Point (Cresswell) on 1st (GB). Also a single was at Exhibition Park (Newcastle) on 11th (GB).

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis50 were at St Mary’s Island on 15th and 16th (ASJ/JPD). 20 were at both Cresswell Pond on 16th (RD/IF) and Newbiggin on 20th (AT). 15 were at East Chevington on 17th (PRM) whilst one to ten were at 14 other sites throughout the month.

Rock Pipit Anthus petrosus20 were at Low Newton beach on 27th (JPD). Eight were feeding on flies around seaweed debris at Bondicarr Beach (Hauxley) on 8th (EC). One to six were at a further nine sites throughout the month including a colour-ringed individual at Sandstell Point (Spital) on 28th (BWG).

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Three finches in a Woolsington winter's gardenTop a Greenfinch and a male Bullfinch and below a Siskin

and a female Bullfinch

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs50 were at Whittle Dene on 18th (SR) and a flock of 28 were feeding in fields at Capheaton on 2nd (STE). 21 in an observer’s garden in Walbottle on 20th was the highest number recorded in 26 years (KR/LR) and one to 20 were at Hauxley, Holywell Dene, Jesmond Dene (Newcastle) and Low Newton throughout the month.

Brambling Fringilla montifringillaA tight flock of 180 feeding on rough ground at Ord Industrial Estate on 26th was the month's largest total ((MHu). 35 were at Melkridge Village on 25th (SJH) whilst one to 12 were at 18 further sites throughout the month.

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris20 were at a Walbottle garden on 27th (KR/LR) whilst ten were at Cobalt Business Park on 25th (CGK) and six at both Backworth Pond on 16th (MNC) and Netherton Park (Stannington) on 21st (RWM/MIM). Also four were at Prestwick Carr on 1st (PCF).

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis110 at Cresswell Pond on 2nd (ASJ) and 100 at East Chevington on 10th (JMA) were the largest counts for the month. One to 38 were at 23 further sites throughout the month.

Siskin Carduelis spinus100 were in roadside trees along Fisher Lane (Cramlington) on 1st (LJM). 60 were at Lemmington Hall (Edlingham) on 20th (PHa), 35 at Hexham on 14th (AJR) and 27 at Big Waters on 2nd (GB). One to 22 were seen at a further 38 sites throughout the month.

Linnet Carduelis cannabinaA single flock held 500 birds at Stag Rocks (Bamburgh) on 26th (AJH) and 100 were at Dunce's House on 7th (AT). 91 at Howdon Wetland NR on 25th beat the site's previous highest count of six (CB). 80 were at Beadnell on 27th (ASJ), 70 at Wellhaugh Point (Amble) on 5th (DS), 60 at Swallow Pond on 8th (JPD) and 50 at Doddington on 2nd (TRD/JD). One to 25 were seen at a further five sites throughout the month.

Twite Carduelis flavirostris An impressive flock of 90 was at Beal Point on 24th (TRD/JD) with possibly part of the same flock seen throughout the month at the Beal end of Holy Island Causeway (AA/MH/CDB). 60 were at Druridge Links on 13th (NFO) and 50 were at both Hemscotthill Links on 2nd (ASJ) and Stag Rocks (Bamburgh) on 27th (PJA/JM).

Redpoll sp. Singles were heard and seen flying over Big Waters, Gosforth and Wideopen throughout the month (GB).

Lesser Redpoll Carduelis cabaret 42 was the month's highest total at Prestwick Carr on 1st (PCF) whilst 40 were feeding in Silver Birches in Melkridge Village on 14th (SJH). 30 were at Summerhouse Lane Pond (Newbiggin) on 5th (DM/STH) and 20 were at Swallow Pond on 8th (JPD). One to eight were at a further 15 sites throughout the month.

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Mealy Redpoll Carduelis flammeaA single was in alders along the south bank of the South Pool with Lesser Redpolls at East Chevington on 24th (PRM). Another single was at Swallow Pond on 3rd (JPD).

Common Crossbill Loxia curvirostra20 including seven males were noted near the dipping pond at Swallow Pond on 29th (SPP). Three flocks totalling 17 birds were at Howick on 1st (SS). 16 went over the South Pool at East Chevington on 3rd (MHp/TRC). One to eight were at a further eight sites throughout the month. The majority of these records came from either coastal or urbanised areas and absence from traditional sites was noted.

Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhulaEight were seen in a Fulbeck garden (Morpeth) throughout the month (TD), Peepy (Stocksfield) on 13th (SAS) and Valley Park (Cramlington) on 20th (DM). Groups of seven were seen at Bates Minewater Treatment Plant (Blyth) on 6th (MHp) and Gosforth Park (NHSN). One to six were at a further 32 sites throughout the month.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustesA very unusual record for the site was one flushed off by an incoming aircraft at Big Waters on 8th (AJJ per GB). A single was also a Swallowship Wood (Hexham) on 16th (AJH).

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalisA quiet month for this winter visitor with 20 at Bamburgh on 18th (JHa) and ten seen in flight from a stubble field across the A1 near Fenwick on 23rd (CDB). Also two were at Lucker on 15th (JHa) and a single at St Mary’s on 5th (CGK/MJC/MSH/AC).

Lapland Bunting Calcarius lapponicusThe only record of the month was a singing bird well inland at Duke's Pond (Wallsend) on 23rd (JPD).

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella The highest count for the month was of 34 at Ord Industrial Estate on 26th (MHu). 30 were at Whittle Dene on 18th (SR), 25 at Pegswood on 7th (AT), 17 at Fenham-le-Moor on 13th (DM/STH) and 15 along the Holystone/Killingworth Waggonway on 5th (BMo). One to 12 were at a further 15 sites including unusual records of five to six coming to seed in a suburban estate at Brunswick Green (Wideopen) on 19th (GB) and a single at Shiremoor Metro Station on 17th (CGK). These records were probably a result of the snowy conditions.

Reed Bunting Emberiza SchoeniclusTen were at Swallow Pond on 28th (MSH). Eight were along the Holystone/Killingworth Waggonway on 5th (BMo) and at the Ord Industrial Estate on 26th (MHu). One to seven were also at a further 15 sites throughout the month.

ESCAPES, HYBRIDS AND BIRDS OF UNKNOWN ORIGINEscapesBar-headed Goose Anser indicusOne at East Chevington on 13th (TRD/JD) and at Druridge Pools on 29th (MSH).

Muscovy Duck Cairina moschataOne from last month at Airy Holm Reservoir near Shotleyfield was present until 9th (IFo).

LIST OF CONTRIBUTORSJ.Alexander, C.Algar, A.Allen, P.J.Allott, J.M.Almond, C.D.Barlow, S.L.Barratt, D.G. & R.H.Bell, R.J. & M.Bentley (RB/MB), D.H.W.Blair, T.Blake, G.Booth, J.S.Booth, G.Bowman, C.Bradshaw, D.Butterfield, M.J.Carr, T.R.Cleeves, M.N.Coates, M.J.Cook (MJCo), E.Crabtree, A.Curry, T.Daley, I.S.Davidson, A.J.Davis, I,B, & K.Davison (IBDa/KDa), J.C.Day, T.R.& J.Dean, J.P.Dobinson, I.R.Douglas, R.Dunn, M.Eccles, S.T.Elliott, T.& J.Farooqi (TF/JFa), A.Field, I.Fisher, P.C.Fletcher, I.Forsyth (IFo), A.Hall, C.D.Hampton, P.H.Hanmer, D.Hardacre, E.Harrison, J.Harrison, A.S.Hart, M.& B.Henry, M.Hepple (MHp), A.J.Hewitt, S.J.Hingston, M.S.Hodgson, S.T.Holliday, R.M.Holmes, M.Hutcheson (MHu), A.S.Jack, A.Janes, P.Jobson, A.J.Johnston, I.Kerr, A.King, M.S.Kitching, C.G.Knox, J.Littlewood, J.D.Lough, D.Lovatt (DLo), J.P.Lumby, A.A.Macfarlane, J.Malloy, S.March, P.R.Massey, S.V. & A.J.McCormick, L.J.Mcdougall, D.McKeown (DM), S.McKie, M.R.McMahon, A.McNicholl, A.D.Mclevy (ADMc), G.Milward (GMi), B.Moorhead (BMo), A.D.Mould, R.W. & M.I.Myatt, M.Nattrass, A.J.Newson, N.F.Osborne, R.J.Pannell, S.P.Parnaby, C.Pears, M.Potts, M.Puxley (MPu), A.J.Richards, J.Richardson, S.Rippon, K. & L.Russell, C.Scrimgeour, S.Sexton, D.W.Simpson, S.A.Spickett, A/Tilmouth, D.R.Watson, K.W.York.

Berwick Wildlife Group, Hauxley Ringing Station, Natural History Society of Northumbria, North Northumberland Bird Club.

Apologies for any accidental omissions

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WEATHER1st to 11th:Generally dry and bright on 1st. The 2nd saw rain for eastern areas in the morning, which cleared to leave scattered showers in the north-west. It was mainly dry but dull for many areas on 3rd, although the north-east saw some patchy rain, and mild. From 4th to 6th it remained dry and mild, but mostly overcast. A band of rain spread across the northern half of the country on 7th. On 10th, after more widespread mist and fog cleared, a band of rain spread from the south-west. There were some light showers for eastern coastal areas.12th to 25th:A band of rain, with snow for some higher inland areas, spread from the west on 12th. On 13th a band of rain, again with snow over higher ground. Another band of at times heavy rain, sleet and snow spread from the west during the morning of 14th. Eastern coastal areas had snow showers on 15th, and temperatures were below average. After a frosty night the 16th was a quieter day, remaining cold. The 17th started wet in the south-west, the patchy rain turning readily to snow as it moved north and east. On 18th a band of sleet and snow spread from the west during the day. The snow moved to eastern areas on 19th. A band of snow moved up the eastern side of England in the afternoon. The 21st saw a widespread frost and a cold but bright day, with northern and north-eastern areas getting some snow. After another cold start on 22nd snow in the north-east gradually died out, by which time Redesdale (Northumberland) had a depth of 28 cm. The 24th was drier and brighter, but remained cold after a frosty start. On 25th an area of rain for coastal areas, but snow for many other areas, spread from the west during the afternoon.26th to 31st:Milder weather returned on 26th, with south-westerly winds increasing and rain spreading from the west. Scattered showers on 27th were driven on by strong westerly winds. More rain spread from the west on 28th with strong westerly winds. The 29th was again breezy, but mild. Cooler on 30th as the winds turned north-westerly, with showers for northern areas. The 31st was brighter, but still breezy with scattered showers in the north.

BULLETIN COMPILATION AND PRODUCTIONThis bulletin was compiled by Graeme Bowman (Mute Swan to Ruddy Duck), Lindsay McDougall (Red Grouse to Black-necked Grebe), Trevor Blake (Honey Buzzard to Crane), Steve Holliday (Oystercatcher to Dunlin) Ian Forsyth (Snipe to Skua), Eddie Crabtree (Ivory Gull to Puffin), Tim Dean (Escapes, Hybrids and Unknown Origin, List of Contributors, High-lights), Peter Fletcher (Feral Pigeon to Red-rumped Swallow), Mike Richardson (Cetti's Warbler to Pied Flycatcher), Phil Al-lott (Dunnock to Corn Bunting), Dan Turner (WeBS Coastal Counts) and Steve Holliday (WeBS Inland Counts).Thanks to David Sanders of NNBC for providing data.Proof reading was by Mike Smith. Edited by Steve Barrett NTBCbulletin2012@gmail.com Mail distribution by Paul Stewart.

RECORD SUBMISSIONPlease e-mail Dick Myatt at dick@dickmyatt.co.uk for a copy of the standard spreadsheet and other details.Location names and grid references: The use of standard location names and the inclusion of grid references greatly in-creases the value of records in subsequent analyses. A 1km square grid reference is the ideal e.g. NY8067 for Grindon Lough, but 2km square references (tetrads) are also acceptable e.g. NY86D in this case. A list of localities and their tetrad grid references (tetrad/Locality List) can be downloaded from the 'Resources & Downloads' section of the Club website at http://www.ntbc.org.uk – the use of these names, wherever possible, would be highly appreciated.

PHOTOGRAPHS AND ILLUSTRATIONSPlease keep submitting your articles, photographs, sketches and illustrations for the bulletin. Thanks again to those who have supplied the excellent photographs. Please send to Steve Barrett at NTBCbulletin2012@gmail.com

It is preferable if you re-size your photos before sending and a suggested size is 640 x 480 pixels. Please ensure you include the following information with your submissions: name, species, date taken, locality.Photographs will not be used elsewhere without the photographer's permission.

MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTIONSSubscriptions for 2012-2013 are now overdue. For membership enquiries please contact ntbc@jobentley.plus.com

NTBC WEB SITEThe Club website is an excellent resource for all interested in birds in the north-east. There are numerous interesting sec-tions, including a photograph gallery, site information and trip reports together with extensive reference information for bird-ing in our area. The site is at www.ntbc.org.uk If you have any ideas or things you would like to see or hear about on the site please let Chris Knox know on 0751 582 5024 or e-mail christopher.knox@o2.co.uk

NTBC SIGHTINGS PAGEThe club sightings web page gives listings of birds seen locally. Adding a sighting is simple. A short e-mail is all that is needed. If anyone would like to be added as a contributor please contact Alan Tilmouth at ntbcorg@gmail.comThe sightings page can be found at http://ntbcsightings.posterous.com

BOU NEW ORDER OF SPECIESThe BOU have recently issued a new order of species as of 14th January 2013. (Please see www.bou.org.uk and follow links via British List, The List , Species in Categories A,B and C and 'View the British List'.) The main change this time is a complete overhaul of Waders plus a repositioning of Gulls, Terns & Auks which are now re-ordered Auks, Terns & Gulls. (Please do not ask me why as I am not a Mitochondrial DNA specialist !)NTBC have always attempted to keep in line with the BOU position so the next bulletin will be adhering to this new order. It was agreed by the County Records Committee at the last meeting to keep the annual report 'Birds in Northumbria 2012' under the old order issued on 15th December 2011 to keep it in line with all the bulletins and online submissions from last year.

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DESCRIPTIONS WANTED FROM 2012Given below is a full list of sightings in 2012 where no documentation has yet been forwarded to the County Recorder. These are all species where the County Records Committee has deemed it pertinent to have a description due to the species' rarity in the county. The Birdguides and RBA websites have been gleaned for any rare sightings together with all submissions to NTBC via email submissions or record cards.

All sightings given need written documentation for the County Records Committee to pass judgement and for the records to pass into the official annual report 'Birds in Northumbria 2012'. Descriptions need to be forwarded by late May at the latest to allow the records committee meeting in July time to vet them. A complete list of all species needing notes is included in the NTBC website www.ntbc.org.uk under the County Records Committee section. This is also replicated in Birds in Northumbria 2011 on page 228. A copy of the Rarity report form can be downloaded from the website ****************** and is also printed in this month's bulletin.

Many of these outstanding records may well be due to the observers feeling that they are unable to document the sighting in full due to the brevity of the sighting which is particularly a problem with sea-birds and birds of prey. 2012 was another busy year for migrants and there are still many county rarities here that need documenting.

Hopefully these records will be written up in order for them to appear in 'Birds of Northumbria 2012'. A recent email splurge asking for descriptions was successful and many of these sightings I am sure will be documented. I have given the initials of those observers who I know were involved in the sighting (although not necessarily the finders) but would welcome descriptions from anyone who happened to see the bird in question.

March is a good time for people to buckle down to writing with Spring still over the horizon!Thanks Tim Dean

Seaton Sluice Watch TowerTwo Chairmen of the Club hard at work

Please note the rainbow (with a crock of gold at the base of the new steps?)

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` a b c d e f e g h d i ] j c k ] l m n o p q r r n q m p m s > F D 6 E X F' : ; : A N < = Q < < B : = : B 3 4 B Q 5 T A < 6 4 7 6* N N T P T ; : B < U O T A U' : ; : A N < : = : B 3 4 5 T A < 6 4 7 6 6 4 4 G H E G 7 I G G I E 4 H 7 D J F I X E X G- T C Y ; T = t U < O @ N @ B O C K P . u ( : N N K T A B 7 X 4 H E G 3 3 4 G X E X I > F D 6 E X F6 7 X G G E X 3 6 4 4 G H E G 7 I J G G I E 4 H" < Y C < = < A B < U M v w* - - ( # -/ : = Q > - : A B : A U < C 6 7 X G G E X 3 6 4 4 G H E G 7 I J G G I E 4 H+ < M B K C 4/ : = Q t / Q < x T < @ A $ : A U 4 > 4 46 7 X G G E X 3 6 4 4 G H E G 7 I J G G I E 4 H* N N K T A B = Y C < Y : C < U M v 5 K ' < A B ; < v L $ K A K C : C v # C < : = T C < C R$ ! ! " * " , * % + . # ! " - " ( 1 ! " #. Q < C < M v N < C B @ O v B Q : B B Q < : M K y < . A N K P < : A U < z Y < A U @ B T C <: N N K T A B = : A U ' : ; : A N < - Q < < B = : C < : B C T < C < Y C < = < A B : B @ K AK O B Q < O @ A : A N @ : ; : O O : @ C = K O B Q < K C B Q T P M < C ; : A U : A U# v A < = @ U < ' @ C U / ; T M J : = < y @ U < A N < U M v B Q < M K K S = J y K T N Q < C =: A U K B Q < C @ A O K C P : B @ K A = T Y Y ; @ < U B K P < E- @ V A < U { | } ~ } � } }+ : B < L � E E E � � E E E � � � � � � �

N o r t h u m b e r l a n d & T y n e s i d eB i r d C l u bR e g i s t e r e d C h a r i t y N o . 5 1 7 6 4 1R A R E o r S C A R C E B I R D R E P O R T F O R MA l i s t o f s p e c i e s r e q u i r i n g d o c u m e n t a t i o n b y t h e C o u n t y R e c o r d s C o m m i t t e e i sa v a i l a b l e i n B i r d s i n N o r t h u m b r i a o r o n t h e c l u b ’ s w e b s i t e a t w w w . n t b c . o r g . u kS p e c i e s : hD a t e & t i m e : h D a t e l a s t s e e n : hN o . o f B i r d s : h A g e / S e x : hL o c a t i o n : h C o u n t y : hF i n d e r : hI d e n t i f i e r ( i f d i f f e r e n t ) : hS u b m i t t e r ( i f d i f f e r e n t ) : hO t h e r O b s e r v e r s : hA n y w h o d i s a g r e e w i t h i d e n t i f i c a t i o n ? : hY o u r n a m e : hA d d r e s s : hT e l e p h o n e N o . : h E m a i l a d d r e s s : hW a s i t t r a p p e d f o r r i n g i n g ? : h Y E S / N O R i n g e r : hW a s i t P h o t o g r a p h e d ? : h Y E S / N O P h o t o g r a p h e r ( s ) ? : hO p t i c a l a i d s : hD i s t a n c e f r o m b i r d : hS p e c i e s p r e s e n t f o r c o m p a r i s o n : hY o u r e x p e r i e n c e o f t h i s s p e c i e s : hY o u r e x p e r i e n c e o f s i m i l a r s p e c i e s : hW e a t h e r c o n d i t i o n s ( P l e a s e i n c l u d e l i g h t c o n d i t i o n s , w i n d s t r e n g t h & d i r e c t i o n , v i s i b i l i t y , r a i n , e t c . ) : hI s t h i s r e c o r d 1 0 0 % c e r t a i n ? Y E S / N O

C i r c u m s t a n c e s & D e s c r i p t i o n : À( P l e a s e i n c l u d e c i r c u m s t a n c e s o f f i n d i n g t h e b i r d ( b r i e f ) , d e t a i l s o f p l u m a g e , b a r e p a r t s , a n y c a l l s / s o n g ,b e h a v i o u r o r ‘ j i z z ’ . A d d e x t r a p a g e s i f n e c e s s a r y )

A n e l e c t r o n i c c o p y o f t h e c o m p l e t e d f o r m c a n b e e m a i l e d t o t h e C o u n t y R e c o r d e r , T i m D e a n a tt . r . d e a n @ b t i n t e r n e t . c o m o r a l t e r n a t i v e l y , a p a p e r c o p y t o 2 K n o c k l a w P a r k , R o t h b u r y N E 6 5 7 P W